The fourth stage is the period of post baptismal catechesis or mystagogy. The newly initiated (neophytes) explore their experience of being fully initiated by full participation in the Sunday Eucharist as well as in continuing formation. This period formally ends at Pentecost, but on a more informal level, mystagogy is a lifelong process...one in which every Christian is engaged throughout their lives.
It is important to note that a candidate may not need to take part in the full process. According to the National Statutes for the Catechumenate, "Those baptized persons who have lived as Christians and need only instruction in the Catholic tradition and a degree of probation within the Catholic Community should not be asked to undergo a full program parallel to the catechumenate." (National Statutes for the Catechumenate, 31)
The fourth stage is the period of post baptismal catechesis or mystagogy. The newly initiated (neophytes) explore their experience of being fully initiated by full participation in the Sunday Eucharist as well as in continuing formation. This period formally ends at Pentecost, but on a more informal level, mystagogy is a lifelong process...one in which every Christian is engaged throughout their lives.
It is important to note that a candidate may not need to take part in the full process. According to the National Statutes for the Catechumenate, "Those baptized persons who have lived as Christians and need only instruction in the Catholic tradition and a degree of probation within the Catholic Community should not be asked to undergo a full program parallel to the catechumenate." (National Statutes for the Catechumenate, 31)